Otoplasty

An ear surgery (also known as an otoplasty) is cosmetic surgery aimed at changing the shape, size or angle of your ears. In most cases, this surgery involves pinning back protruding ears to deliver a more pleasing look.

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GALLERY (2)

QUICK DETAILS

WHO IS THIS FOR

People who are self-conscious about the size, shape or angle of their ears

Otoplasty is mostly done on children and adolescents but adults request the treatment as well

TREATMENT DURATION

1 to 3 hours

RECOVERY TIME

Return to work or school in about 1 week

Avoid contact sports and other forms of vigorous activity for around 3 months

Numbness and swelling can last for up to 2 weeks

Pain can linger for several months after the procedure

POTENTIAL RISKS & SIDE EFFECTS

Infection of the skin and cartilage

Bleeding and blood clots

Inflammation

Recurrence of the original issue (ears may return to their original position)

Asymmetrical ears

Over-correction

SUCCESS

Success rates vary around the world but are well in excess of 90 percent in Asia and Europe.

Before And After Pictures (2)

HOW DOES IT WORK?

An otoplasty involves a range of different techniques to replace, reconstruct or correct deformed ears or parts of the ear. In most cases, the procedure involves remodelling the cartilage in the ear to move the ear closer to the head or create missing folds.

Here’s the breakdown of an otoplasty procedure:

1. Consultation
The first step is having a consultation with the surgeon. You will be taken through the procedure step by step. You will also be asked a series of questions about your medical history, including questions about allergies and underlying health issues. This is your chance to ask questions about preparing for the procedure and how to manage your pain and recovery afterwards.

2. Anaesthesia
Most patients undergo otoplasty procedures under local anaesthetic. However, young children or those with certain underlying conditions might be advised to have a general anaesthetic. This will be discussed with you during your initial consultation.

3. The otoplasty procedure
Either a plastic surgeon or an ear, nose and throat surgeon will start the otoplasty by making a small cut behind the ear in order to expose the cartilage. Depending on the nature of the issue being corrected, the removal of cartilage fragments may be necessary. Some procedures also include the manipulation, scoring and stitching of remaining cartilage to achieve the desired shape or angle.

Are there different types of otoplasty?

There are three main types of otoplasty - which of them you're offered depends on the scale of your cosmetic issue, the surgeon you choose and any underlying health issues you may have.

An ear augmentation will probably be offered if the pinna (outer ear) hasn't developed properly. The most common type of otoplasty is the otopexy. This common and relatively safe procedure involves pinning back protruding ears and leaving them much closer to the head.

Otoplasty techniques can also be used to perform ear reductions, when the pinna is so big it causes self-esteem issues for the patient. The development of unusually large ears is called macrotia.

Most surgeons will need to make at least one incision behind the ear to manipulate the cartilage. However, newer techniques involve scoring cartilage through the skin - making incisions unnecessary.

What should I expect?

Your anaesthesia and pain-relief options will be explained to you during your initial consultation. While you might be advised to avoid a general anaesthetic, there may be the option of combining intravenous sedation with a series of local anaesthetic injections.

The surgeon will need to make a reasonably large incision behind your ear, so there will be pain, bruising and swelling to contend with. There will also be a scar afterwards, but it should fade over time - becoming almost invisible after a few months.

Any surgical procedure can lead to fear and anxiety, so don't be afraid to discuss your emotions with either your clinicians, your family, or us at Qunomedical.

price calculation

Prices for an otoplasty procedure vary greatly from country to country. Check the map below to get an idea of prices across different countries.

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Below are starting prices for ear surgery in different countries. The cost of an otoplasty depends on the procedure you need to undergo and if you are having surgery performed on one or two ears. The location where you choose to have treatment will also factor into your final price.

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Treatment was done so professionally. Would like to thank qunomedical and ISCARE.

I was afraid first as I was using it for the first time. Every thing gone so smoothly. Treatment was done so professionally. They are flexible that you can arrange according to your suit. Would like to thank qunomedical and ISCARE.

I am soo happy and very amazed by the wonderful treatment and care I received from the moment I stepped in the door to when I left.

I was assisted the entire time with a personal contact who was able to answer all my questions. Everyone at Medimel was extremely friendly and thoughtful. I felt special! I was treated excellently. The facilities were clean and interestingly decorative. I am soo happy and very amazed by the wonderful treatment and care I received from the moment I stepped in the door to when I left.
The fact that I was able to communicate via WhatsApp was helpful since I work long and strange hours and don't always have my phone with me. I thought it was extremely kind of my contact to ask how I was feeling post-op. :) Since I have never experienced anything like this before I honestly don't know what could be improved. It all went very smoothly, better than expected.

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FAQ

Find below the most frequently asked questions on ear surgery and information about Qunomedical.

What is Qunomedical?

Qunomedical is your gateway to high-quality medical treatments and internationally-accredited clinics worldwide. We connect you with professionally-vetted physicians anywhere in the world and prepare personalized, free and non-binding treatment quotes for you. From booking your appointment to following up on your recovery, we offer continuous support throughout your medical journey, and are available 24/7.
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How do I get a quote?

Getting a quote with Qunomedical is easy, fast, and free. Whatever stage you are at in your research, you can send us a request via our form, give us a call, or send us an email. One of our Health Managers will be in touch to discuss your options and send you a free, non-binding quote for your preferred location.
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How long does the recovery take?

This depends on the extent of the problem being corrected. You'll have to wear bandages over your ears for several days after surgery, so expect to be off work or school for up to a week. During this time, you probably won't be able to wash your hair.
You'll probably be asked to wear a protective headband for up to four weeks following the removal of your bandages. However, you should be able to resume everyday activities within two weeks. Pain, swelling and tightness should subside within three months.

When are results visible?

You'll have to wear bandages for a few days after the procedure, so you should remain patient. However, the changes to your ears should be immediate. Once the swelling and bruising has subsided, your ears should look natural and completely augmented.

What if the results are disappointing?

While more than 90 percent of otoplasty operations are a complete success, there are occasions when the results don't meet the expectations of the patient. However, you should wait until the swelling and bruising has gone before assessing the operation's success.
You can contact us at Qunomedical if you already had an operation you are not happy with and we will help you find the right doctor for you.